Heh, so I'll reply to my own post. I ended up going to Mule Bar in Winooski. They're known as a craft beer destination, but since they're run by the same concern that opened Three Penny Taproom in Montpelier I was banking that they've got a strong cocktail program too. Boy, was I right. They had a barrel-aged Brooklyn (bourbon, dry vermouth, maraschino, and Amaro CioCiaro) that's probably the first bitter cocktail I've really loved. But the revelation here was a drink called the Sound Czech: bourbon, becherovka, maple, lemon, and house-made coffee-pecan bitters. The bitters left a wonderful lingering coffee flavor on the back of the tongue. Food was also excellent: a burger with caramelized onions and Cremont cheese (from Vermont Creamery) with crispy, rosemary-scented frites. http://mulebarvt.com/

Hey, for future reference, I have had great cocktails at Veritas, the pizza place, and also at the Whiskey Bar, when I have taken the time to talk to the bartender, and not just read their seasonal specials.

Farmhouse Tap & Grill has a parlor downstairs that is cozy and fun. They serve a truncated menu and drinks. After you walk through the entrance, there is a wood door on the right - go through there to get to the parlor.